Why does Detterling come to mind here?

Do you know folks who “suck all the oxygen” out of a room?

By that is meant: a person who demands the attention of everyone; takes center stage at any home or event; wants always to talk. In their presence, you feel silenced. Sometimes, your energy is tapped out or drained.

And it’s not just your imagination: the spiritual forces in and around others can have an effect on yours; if it’s negative, it’s like an empty vessel that seeks to be filled and can be parasitic, vampiric. Empty vessels—vacuums—cause suction in search of fulfillment. Space abhors a vacuum.

When someone is said to ‘suck all the air out of the room,’ it typically means that their presence or behavior has an overwhelming effect on the atmosphere, often stifling conversation or making others feel uncomfortable. This phrase is often used to describe someone who dominates a social situation, either by being excessively loud, dramatic, or attention-seeking, thereby leaving little space for others to engage or express themselves. It can also refer to someone who brings a negative energy that dampens the mood, making the environment feel tense or awkward.”

Toss in condescending people who think they’re right about everything and judge you by their skewed perceptions and standards.

The psychological motivation for such dominating behavior can vary. Some individuals may seek to dominate due to insecurity, using their overt presence as a shield against their vulnerabilities. Others might simply be unaware of the impact of their behavior, especially if they are naturally extroverted and have not received feedback about their dominance. In some cases, cultural or familial backgrounds that emphasize assertive communication may play a role.

It can be insecurity, which tags along with narcissism.

Ego seems to be the word of the century.

It can be a spiritual force.

The Prince of Pride?

It’s not the Holy Spirit doing this, for certain. The Holy Spirit breathes life and vigor into us. Whether a simple personality defect or dark spirit at work, it’s good to inure oneself with prayer: ask Jesus to place a mantle or bubble of buffering around you, so that you  don’t lose energy and are not infiltrated.

Let’s face it; there are people who are “full of hot air.” It indicates pride, which can wreak various forms of havoc. Egos demand attention and centre stage.

But little prayers can be like little pins: a single one can deflate a balloon. Just don’t insufflate the hot air that issues forthwith.